"INTRO ~ What does it mean to be human? What does it mean to be human?
I cannot help but suspect that at one time in the history of thinking
that people believed that it meant that we were spiritual and that we
could make choices and were capable of aspiring to higher ideals...
like maybe loyalty or maybe faith... or maybe even love.
But now we are told by people who think they know, that we vary from
amoeba only in the complexity of our makeup and not in what we
essentially are. They would have us think as Dysart said that we are
forever bound up in certain genetic reigns - that we are merely products
of the way things are and not free - not free to be the people who make
them that way. They would have us see ourselves as products so that
we could believe that we were something to be made - something to
be used and then something to be disposed of. Used in their wars -
used for their gains and then set aside when we get in their way.
Well, who are they? They are the few who sit at the top of the heap -
dung heap though it is - and who say it is better to reign in Hell than
to serve in Heaven. Well, I do not know that we can have a Heaven
here on earth, but I am sure we need not have a Hell either.
What does it mean to be human? I cannot help but believe that it means
we are spiritual - that we are responsible and that we are free - that
we are responsible to be free."
"When I was back in high school
They said boy try and make some sense
Grow up and be a consumer
And not a dissident
Don't worry 'bout the system
Just watch out for yourself
It sounded just like the wisdom
That comes straight out of Hell
They said (shut up) don't make no ripples
(Shut up) don't raise no stink
I heard so much of their drivel
It's a wonder I can think
Don't give me that
I want the truth
Don't say for fact
What is only point of view
Don't give me that
I've had enough
We best get back to what was written
In the in the Book of love
Well when I went to college
They said boy get this straight
You're just a tailless monkey
You're a hairless ape
We're on a scary evolutionary stairway
Who knows where
Trusting higher education
To get us all there
There ain't no values no morals
There's no rights and no wrongs
Never knowing where we're going
Well it's hard to go wrong
Don't give me that
I want the truth
Don't say for fact
What is only your point of view
Don't give me that
I've had enough
We best get back to what was written
In the in the in the Book of love
(Higher)
(Higher)
(Higher education and the Book of Love)
When I came to my senses
At the foot of the cross
I saw the wisdom that comes
From the fear of God
How it is pure it loves peace
It's full of mercy and good fruit
It had the power to free me
The power of the truth
Like a setting of silver
On an apple of gold
Is a word aptly spoken
Is the truth clearly told
Now give me that
'Cause that's the truth
It's bigger than fact
It's broader than your point of view
Now give me that
Can't get enough
When we get back to what was written
In the in the Book of love
Now give me that
'Cause that's the truth
It's bigger than fact
It's broader than your your point of view
Now give me that
Can't get enough
When we get back to what was written
In the in the Book of love
Higher education and the Book of Love
Higher education and the Book of Love
Higher education and the Book of Love
Higher education and the Book of Love
Higher education and the Book of Love"
Higher Education and the Book of Love Video
Higher Education and the Book of Love Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Higher Education and the Book of Love by Rich Mullins is a thought-provoking song that raises questions about the meaning of being human and the role of education in shaping our beliefs and values.
Introduction to the Song:
The song begins with the question, "What does it mean to be human?" Mullins expresses his suspicion that society has reduced humanity to mere products of genetic makeup, denying our spiritual nature and the ability to make choices and aspire to higher ideals. He challenges the idea that we are meant to be used and disposed of by those in power, emphasizing the importance of recognizing our spiritual responsibility and freedom.
Exploring the Main Messages:
1. Challenging the Materialistic Worldview:
Mullins criticizes the prevailing materialistic worldview that focuses on consumerism and personal gain. He rejects the notion that we should solely prioritize our own interests and ignore the impact of our actions on others. The song encourages listeners to seek truth and reject the relativistic view that disregards moral values and the existence of absolute truth.
2. The Role of Education:
The song highlights the influence of education on shaping our beliefs and values. Mullins laments how higher education often promotes a worldview that denies the existence of values, morals, and rights or wrongs. He suggests that education should be based on the truth and teachings found in the "Book of Love," which refers to the Bible.
3. Rediscovering the Book of Love:
Mullins emphasizes the need to return to the teachings and wisdom found in the Bible. He contrasts the modern education system, which he sees as lacking values and morals, with the timeless truths found in the Scriptures. The song encourages listeners to seek the truth found in the Bible, which Mullins believes is broader and more significant than personal opinions and perspectives.
Meaning and Inspiration:
The meaning of the song revolves around the idea of reclaiming our spiritual identity and rejecting the dehumanizing ideologies of the world. Mullins was known for his strong Christian faith and devotion to God. He often incorporated themes of faith, social justice, and the teachings of Jesus in his music. Inspired by his faith and the teachings of Jesus, Mullins sought to challenge the prevailing cultural narratives and encourage listeners to embrace their spiritual responsibility and freedom.
Critically Analyzing the Biblical Implications:
The song aligns with biblical teachings on several levels. Firstly, it emphasizes the spiritual nature of humanity, which is rooted in the belief that humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). It also echoes the biblical concept of free will, highlighting our ability to make choices and aspire to higher ideals. The song's call to reject the materialistic worldview and prioritize spiritual values resonates with Jesus' teachings about the importance of seeking God's kingdom above worldly possessions (Matthew 6:33).
Furthermore, Mullins' emphasis on the importance of the Bible as the source of truth aligns with biblical teachings about the Word of God. The Bible is described as living and active, capable of discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). It is also portrayed as a lamp to guide our steps and a source of wisdom (Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 2:6).
However, it is essential to note that the song does not explicitly reference specific biblical passages or provide a comprehensive theological argument. It serves more as a call to reflect on the values and beliefs we hold and to consider the role of education in shaping our worldview. While the song aligns with biblical principles, it should be seen as a starting point for further exploration of biblical teachings rather than a complete theological treatise.
Conclusion:
Higher Education and the Book of Love by Rich Mullins challenges society's materialistic worldview and urges listeners to prioritize spiritual values and seek truth in the teachings of the Bible. The song encourages reflection on the meaning of being human and the influence of education on our beliefs and values. While the song aligns with biblical principles, it is important to engage in further study of the Bible to fully understand its theological implications. Mullins' music continues to inspire and provoke thought, reminding us of the timeless truths found in the Book of Love.
